If you’re one of the many people who have upgraded to Windows 8.1 and are now missing the familiar Windows 7 desktop, you’re not alone. While Windows 8.1 offers many new features and improvements, some users prefer the simplicity and familiarity of Windows 7. Fortunately, it is possible to change your Windows 8.1 desktop to look and function like Windows 7. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to change from Windows 8.1 to Windows 7 desktop.
Why Change to Windows 7 Desktop?
Familiarity and Ease of Use
One of the main reasons people choose to change from Windows 8.1 to Windows 7 desktop is the familiarity and ease of use. Windows 7 has been around for over a decade and has become the standard for many users. The layout and functionality of the desktop are intuitive and easy to navigate, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a simpler operating system.
Compatibility with Older Programs
Another reason to change to Windows 7 desktop is compatibility with older programs. While Windows 8.1 offers improved performance and security, it may not be compatible with some older programs and applications. By switching to Windows 7, you can ensure that your programs will continue to work without any issues.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the decision to change to Windows 7 desktop is a personal preference. Some users simply prefer the look and feel of Windows 7 over Windows 8.1. If you fall into this category, don’t worry – you can easily change your desktop to suit your preferences.
How to Change from Windows 8.1 to Windows 7 Desktop
Now that you understand the reasons for changing to Windows 7 desktop, let’s dive into the steps to make the switch.
Step 1: Back Up Your Data
Before making any changes to your operating system, it’s important to back up your data. This will ensure that you don’t lose any important files or documents in the process. You can back up your data by copying it to an external hard drive, using a cloud storage service, or using a backup software.
Step 2: Obtain a Windows 7 Installation Disc or USB
In order to change from Windows 8.1 to Windows 7 desktop, you will need a Windows 7 installation disc or USB. If you don’t have one, you can purchase one from a computer store or download an ISO file from the Microsoft website. Make sure to choose the correct version of Windows 7 (Home, Professional, etc.) for your needs.
Step 3: Create a Windows 7 Installation Media
Once you have your Windows 7 installation disc or USB, you will need to create a Windows 7 installation media. This will allow you to boot your computer from the installation media and install Windows 7. To create a Windows 7 installation media, follow these steps:
- Insert the Windows 7 installation disc or USB into your computer.
- Open the Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool.
- Click “Browse” and select the ISO file you downloaded or the disc drive with the installation disc.
- Click “Next” and choose “USB device” or “DVD” as the media type.
- Select the USB drive or DVD you want to use and click “Begin copying”.
- Wait for the process to complete.
Step 4: Boot Your Computer from the Installation Media
Now that you have your Windows 7 installation media, you will need to boot your computer from it. To do this, follow these steps:
- Restart your computer.
- When the computer starts up, press the key to enter the boot menu (usually F12 or Esc).
- Use the arrow keys to select the installation media and press “Enter”.
- Follow the prompts to boot from the installation media.
Step 5: Install Windows 7
Once your computer has booted from the installation media, you can begin the process of installing Windows 7. Follow these steps to install Windows 7:
- Choose your language, time and currency format, and keyboard or input method.
- Click “Install now”.
- Enter your product key when prompted.
- Read and accept the license terms.
- Choose “Custom (advanced)” as the installation type.
- Select the partition where you want to install Windows 7.
- Click “Next” and wait for the installation to complete.
Step 6: Install Drivers and Programs
After the installation is complete, you will need to install any necessary drivers and programs. This will ensure that your computer is functioning properly and that you have access to all of your files and programs. You can install drivers and programs from the installation media or by downloading them from the internet.
Step 7: Restore Your Data
Now that you have Windows 7 installed and your drivers and programs are up to date, you can restore your data from the backup you created in Step 1. This will ensure that all of your important files and documents are back on your computer.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Changing from Windows 8.1 to Windows 7 desktop may seem like a daunting task, but with these tips, you can make the transition as smooth as possible.
Back Up Your Data Regularly
It’s always a good idea to back up your data regularly, even if you’re not planning on changing your operating system. This will ensure that you always have a recent copy of your files in case of any issues.
Keep Your Drivers and Programs Up to Date
To ensure that your computer is functioning properly, it’s important to keep your drivers and programs up to date. This will also help prevent any compatibility issues when switching to a new operating system.
Consider Dual Booting
If you’re not ready to completely switch to Windows 7, you can consider dual booting. This will allow you to have both Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 on your computer, giving you the option to choose which one to use at startup.
Conclusion
While Windows 8.1 offers many new features and improvements, some users prefer the simplicity and familiarity of Windows 7. If you’re one of those users, don’t worry – it’s possible to change your Windows 8.1 desktop to look and function like Windows 7. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily make the switch and enjoy the benefits of the Windows 7 desktop.
